Stylistically Matthiasson’s target here is Provençal rosé: no malolactic, no lees stirring, raised sur lie in stainless barrels. The fruit, too, has Rhône origins: a blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Counoise from Yolo County, plus Syrah from Napa Valley (the mixed provenance begetting its “California” appellation).
The fey rose gold body has orange glints and offers a crisp, apple-y scent suggesting both the fruit’s blossoms and its red skin. The strawberry-inflected palate feels bright and fresh. This is a crackly wine, crunchy like an apple and clean like spring air. It is also sold out.
11.6% abv | $23 (sample) | 2,000 cases made
Tasted at the winery on 14 June 2016.
